Future of seaside retreat in the balance

.5The coastal residential centre at Filey has been a principal destination for Rotherham’s primary pupils since the 19th century.

But it could be shut down if a voluntary group does not step forward this summer to operate the house, which is valued at between £150,000 and £175,000.

There were less than 35 trips by Rotherham schools between April 2014 and March 2016, with most classes travelling to activity centres inland.

And Rotherham Borough Council, which owns Habershon, says schools are preferring to take groups bigger than its 42 capacity.

Deputy leader Cllr Gordon Watson said: “Habershon House is clearly steeped in history and many people have fond memories of staying there when they were at school.

“But unfortunately it is not managing to sustain its place as a venue of choice for our schools.

“We are confident that not-for-profit providers with specialist skills are interested in taking on Habershon House and securing its use.

“But if we are not able to make those arrangements in the coming months then unfortunately we will be forced to close it for good.”

Despite the fall in bookings, Habershon’s projected deficit this year is £22,000 - less than half the loss it made four years ago.

Relaunching the centre - with internet access and improved facilities - would cost £19,818, including marketing.

Council commissioners halted consultation over a possible sell-off last summer as 2,226 people signed an online petition.

Cllr Watson will make the decision between reinvestment, closure and the recommended option of seeking an asset transfer on July 11.

He said: “We want to see a third party make a go of it, so we can still maintain the site for future generations.”

A council spokesman added: “Early soundings with voluntary and community groups have indicated that there is genuine interest in pursuing this option.”